Hazard and Risk Register

Purpose. The register lists every identified workplace hazard, its risk rating, the controls in place and the actions outstanding, and is reviewed at each monthly WHS committee meeting.

1.How the register is used

Every hazard reported by staff, found on inspection or identified after an incident is entered in this register within one working day. The WHS and Wellbeing Manager assigns a risk rating using the Ridgeway risk matrix and an owner for the controls. The register is a controlled record and entries must not be deleted.

2.Risk rating

Risk is rated by combining likelihood and consequence on the five by five matrix. Extreme and high risks must have interim controls in place the same day and permanent controls agreed within 30 days. Medium risks must be controlled within 90 days. Low risks are monitored.

• Extreme: stop the activity until controlled
• High: interim control same day
• Medium: control within 90 days
• Low: monitor and review annually

3.Current extreme and high risks

Assault on staff in Unit 4 during unlock is rated high and is controlled by staggered unlock, two-officer presence and body-worn cameras. Needlestick injury during cell searches is rated high and is controlled by search gloves, torches and the no-blind-reach rule. Fatigue from consecutive overtime shifts is rated high and is controlled through the roster limits in the Work Health and Safety Policy.

4.Current medium risks

Medium risks include manual handling of property tubs in reception, slips on the wet kitchen floor, noise in the metal workshop, heat stress in the yards during summer and psychological exposure after critical incidents. Each has a named owner and a target date.

5.Review

The WHS committee reviews every open entry each month and closes entries only when the owner presents evidence that the control is in place and effective. The register is audited annually by the contract manager.